Birthday Session Guide

Welcome to Your Birthday Session!


Your baby is about to blow out the candle on their first birthday cake, and we are so excited to be a part of this special milestone! Our in-studio session is designed to capture your baby's big moment, full of joy and excitement. Here's everything you need to know to make sure we have the most fun and memorable session possible.

Session Overview


Your birthday or cake smash session is designed to capture your baby's special milestone in a relaxed and fun way. These sessions last up to 30 minutes and are held in our cozy studio.


The session is focused solely on your birthday baby, so we’ll make sure to highlight their adorable personality and those perfect little moments!

You’ll have the chance to choose from a variety of charming backdrops and chairs that will fit your theme and style. Whether you want something colorful and playful or simple and classic, we have options to suit your vision.


We go with the flow to make sure your baby feels comfortable and relaxed!

Black and white photo of a baby in a white onesie with 'one' text sitting in a wooden rocking chair.

What to Bring


To make sure your baby’s session is perfect, here’s a list of things to bring:

  • Outfits: Plan a few different outfits for your baby (they look cute in everything!)
  • Smash Cake: You can bring your own homemade or purchased cake!
  • Balloons: If you’re bringing balloons, helium-filled balloons work best, but we also welcome loose balloons.
  • Props: Feel free to bring any props you’d like to include in the session, like a favorite toy, party hats, or a sign.
A small child leans over to take a bite of a pink frosted cake perched on a wooden stool.

Cake Smash Tips


If you're planning to do a cake smash, here are a few tips to make sure the cake looks amazing:

  • Cake Color: White or yellow cakes tend to photograph better than chocolate cakes. Avoid using red fillings or be aware they can stain the baby’s skin and clothing.
  • Bakery Options: If you're purchasing the cake, consider getting it from a trusted local bakery to ensure the perfect look and taste for the shoot.
  • It doesn't have to be a cake!: We have had babies eat pie or cookies. Whatever your heart desires!


Baby in white dress with pink bow celebrates first birthday with smash cake in sunny garden setting.
Pink and white first birthday cake smash photo setup with balloons against a white brick wall background.
Baby in navy blue romper celebrates first birthday with silver number one balloon and blue party decorations.
A first birthday cake smash photo with blue balloons, a decorated cake, and a white brick wall backdrop.
Joyful baby enjoys their first birthday cake celebration surrounded by colorful balloons and party decorations.

After the Session


  • You will receive an online gallery of high resolution digital images in 2-4 weeks.
  • Look through your online gallery with family and friends, download your images to share online, and create favorites lists.
  • Print your photos! Your photos should be showcased in your home and not just exist digitally. Use your online gallery to order prints or get them printed locally. While we highly encourage ordering prints through your online gallery for the highest quality print possible, your session includes a print release which allows you to print your images wherever you'd like.
Tropical themed first birthday party setup with 'wild one' gold banner and monstera leaves on white background.

Premium Books & Prints


Having digital images is wonderful but a printed keepsake that tells a visual story is priceless! In your gallery store we offer the option to design your own premium layflat books, as well as canvases, prints, and custom framing - all are meticulously crafted using archival-quality materials and finishes. Our professional-quality prints can be ordered directly through your online gallery store. If you would like to have us to design an heirloom quality keepsake book for you from your session please let us know and we will walk you through the process!